Mat, who works as a plant operator in Canberra was announced winner during the second day of the annual Walcha Cup Carnival.

Rebecca Byrne, an agronomist from Moree, was awarded the ‘spunk’ in the annual award.

The finalists were introduced to the crowd of 900 enthusiastic racing patrons and interviewed by The Land's editor, Andrew Marshall, and Walcha Jockey Club representative, Alexandra Little, before the winners were presented.

Rebecca and Mat won prizes to the value of $2600 each, which included: accommodation from Metro Inns, a phone package from Telstra, a clothing voucher from Birdsnest.com.au, a swag from Goodwood’s Saddlery, a youth membership from the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW, a voucher from Akubra, and champagne from Casella wines.

This year's competition drew just under 200 entrants from across the State, as well as a few from interstate.

"I would recommend the competition to anyone" Mat Clarke said. The Land really knows how to put on a good show, especially when you get into the finals."